Saha, Rahane knocks go in vain as India ‘A’ crash to defeat

India A’s batting collapsed when it mattered the most as they crashed to a 121-run defeat in the second unofficial ‘Test’ against South Africa A who rode on seamer Beuran Hendricks’ six-wicket haul to level the two-match series 1-1 in Pretoria on Tuesday.

The visitors lost despite fighting half-centuries by Ajinkya Rahane (86) and Wriddhiman Saha (77 not out) who made a gallant effort to try and take India to victory after a top order collapse.

PartnershipChasing a stiff 307-run target for victory, Rahane and Saha by tea had brightened India’s chances of registering a series win with a 160-run stand for the sixth wicket after they were struggling on 18 for five at one stage.

India A had won the first ‘Test’ by an innings and 13 runs at Rustenburg.

They were cruising on 177 for five at tea with both Rahane and Saha at the crease before the tables completely turned around after the break with the visitors losing five wickets for just seven runs.